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August 03, 2012

Friday's pregame Rangers notes

The story of the day, so far, has been Josh Hamilton's statement that ended all of the speculation as to what might be going on with the Rangers star slugger. It had nothing to do with his marriage or anything too significant, simply he wanted to quit chewing tobacco.

Here are a few other notes regarding the team:

* Joe Nathan is unavailable tonight, manager Ron Washington said. Nathan has thrown 62 pitches the past two nights. Washington used Nathan in what had become a blowout because his bullpen was thin. Tanner Scheppers and Alexi Ogando were off, and Robbie Ross was supposed to have the night off but was needed to get an out.

* Mark Lowe, on the disabled list with a right intercostal (rib) strain, is with the team in Kansas City, but won't be activated this series. Lowe will make at least one more medical rehabilitation appearance, and the intentions are to have him pitch on consecutive days. That could change, of course, but Lowe likely won't be an option until the Rangers take on the Tigers next weekend.

* Koji Uehara has begun playing long toss but there is no timetable for his return. Once Uehara can throw off a mound, the Rangers will be able to lay out a plan for him.